TNAG-0747-FCO40-951-Visits-of-Foreign-and-Commonwealth-officials-to-Hong-Kong-1978 — Page 101

CONFI,ENTIAL

The proposed levy (0.025% ad valorem

imports, exports and re-exports) would be used to finance training centres and existing and all future training schemes. If the Council became a statutory body the existing statutory schemes for the clothing and construction industries would be brought within its aegis. As the Council would continue to be serviced by the Labour Department, staffing implications would be minimal.

These recommendations are currently the

subject of consultation within the Government. It was envisaged at the time when the Council was established that it would develop eventually into a statutory body. The levy proposal is also consistent with the Government's general principle that industry should finance practical training schemes, with the Government financing facilities

for related technical education.

(j): The rate at which improved declarations can be made with regard to the application to Hong Kong of International Labour Conventions is likely to decrease from 1980 onverds (pera. 42 of the Report)

Agreed. Nevertheless, we will continue to review our position in order to identify areas for further improvement.

There are difficulties in applying to Hong Kong the two particular Conventions (No. 100 on Equal Remuneration and No. 120 on Hygiene: Commerce and Offices) suggested in Mr. Hurst's Report While the principles present no serious problems in the long term, there are considerable enforcement and practical problems to be overcome.

CONFIDENTIAL